The National Security Coordinator, DCOP Abdul-Osman Razak, has reassured the National House of Chiefs that there is no attempt by Nigerian national, Chukwudi Jude Ihenetu, to establish Igbo kingdom in Ghana.
Addressing the House during its sitting in Kumasi, DCOP Razak sought to allay fears following a viral video that sparked public concern. He explained that national security had proactively investigated the matter as soon as it came to their attention.
“As national security operatives, we do not wait for formal complaints before acting. Once our intelligence team briefed us, I instructed our investigative team to look into the issue,” he said.
According to the Coordinator, Mr. Ihenetu was invited for questioning and denied ever acquiring land for the purpose of establishing a kingdom. “I personally engaged him, and he admitted that while he had intended to buy land for that purpose, the plan has since been abandoned,” DCOP Razak disclosed.
Further investigations by a team sent to the alleged area confirmed that no such land transaction had taken place. “The chiefs in the area verified that no land had been sold to any individual for such purposes,” he added.
DCOP Razak also clarified that the viral video, which reignited the controversy, was recorded in 2003 and has been deliberately recirculated to cause alarm. “This video is outdated and has been reactivated for mischief,” he noted.
He warned of the increasing challenge posed by misinformation and disinformation, especially in the digital age. “One of the biggest challenges in modern security is fake news. Today, people can use Artificial Intelligence to make it appear as though the President or other officials have said things they never did,” he said. “Social media has become a battleground for this.”
Reiterating the government’s position, DCOP Razak stressed that there is no threat to Ghana’s traditional or chieftaincy structures. “Under our national security framework, the issue has been resolved. Mr. Ihenetu has not acquired any land and lacks the authority to establish any institution or kingdom in Ghana,” he emphasized.
He added that Ghana’s traditions and land ownership structures are clear and well-established. “The chieftaincy institution is already rooted in our culture. No individual can unilaterally create a new kingdom within another’s land,” he asserted.
He also questioned the feasibility of the alleged attempt, pointing out that even if a foreigner were to purchase land, it would be for commercial use and limited to a leasehold of 50 years. “Can a kingdom be created for just 50 years?” he asked rhetorically.
DCOP Razak concluded by assuring the traditional leaders that the National Security apparatus remains vigilant and will continue to safeguard Ghana’s sovereignty and cultural heritage.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh/Isaac Justice Bediako
